Kazakhstan

The Kazakh word “bayterek” translates to “tall poplar” tree. Kazakh legends say that the Tree of Life grows on the bank of World River and its name is Bayterek. Samruk is the bird of happiness that lays a golden egg in the nest at the top of the tree.

Book of Serikbola Kondybay. Kazakh mythology.

The egg is symbolic of the Sun, that brings life and hope to the world. Beneath the tree, hiding in the roots is a dragon called Aydakhar. Aydakhar wants to eat the egg.

This Kazakh version of the universe, was embodied in a beautiful tower resembling the Bayterek.